People are very much connected to the art and culture of their cities and know a lot about them too. However, if such heritage structures get affected, people attached to them tend to feel bad. Railway enthusiasts and historical conservationists are shocked and disturbed by the Indian Railways’ recent breaking down of the old arches between Platform One and Platform Two of Bengaluru Cantonment station.
Reason Behind Demolishing Bengaluru Cantonment Station’s Arches
While historical conservationists and railway enthusiasts suggest contemporary technologies for the preservation and retention of the arches, the Railways contend that these outdated arches endangered the lives of passengers and had to be dismantled.
At a cost of ₹480 crore, this famous Karnataka railway station—the first to run trains—will be transformed into a top-notch structure. However, the South Western Railway (SWR) Zone’s official statement from last year, which was issued in conjunction with the construction, focused on the preservation of the station’s historic structure.
A city heritage preservation group has demanded explanations from the railways and questioned the lack of consultation before the dismantling of 20 masonry arches that are more than a century old and located on lines between PF1 and PF2.
Here’s What The People Have To Say About This Demolition
As reported by The New Indian Express, Prabha Dev of Heritage Beku questions the Railways regarding who granted them permission to demolish the building. Prabha also asked why architects and contractors do not know the worth of the buildings that have been demolished. According to Prabha, the heritage arches ought to have been included in the new building.
Bengaluru’s heritage building demolition is deemed “a crying shame” by Priya Chetty-Rajagopal, who also demands consultation. She points out that there is no clear decision authority and that the city’s legacy is not given priority, as reported by TNIE.
National Rail Enthusiasts Society member T R Raghunandan calls the demolition of arches at a Cantonment Station a catastrophe and a careless move by authorities.
The Bengaluru Railway Division’s wall, which was approximately 60 meters long and had deteriorated and brittle old arches, was demolished, according to SWR Constructions Division, as reported by TNIE. With expansions above it, the wall reaches a height of around 60 meters.
Did you get a chance to see this now-demolished heritage arches structure in Bengaluru?
Cover Image Credit: YouTube/MJ Juhi Vlogs
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE. First Published: December 10, 2024 1:31 PM